Must-See Oregon Coast Events You Can’t Afford to Skip!
The Oregon Coast is a treasure trove of stunning landscapes, rich culture, and vibrant community events that draw locals and tourists alike throughout the year. Whether you’re watching the waves crash against rocky cliffs during a storm, indulging in delicious seafood at one of the many festivals, or participating in family-friendly activities, there’s always something happening along this breathtaking coastline. Here’s a comprehensive guide to must-attend events across the Oregon Coast, organized by season, to ensure you don’t miss out on the fun!
January: New Beginnings and Whale Watching
Start the year off right with exciting events that celebrate the natural beauty of the Oregon Coast. The first major event of the year is the glass float drop in Lincoln City, where 100 handcrafted glass floats are hidden along the beach from January 3-5, 2025. This unique treasure hunt is a delightful way to kick off the year.
From January 11-13, 2025, you can join the Oregon King Tides Project, taking photographs of areas impacted by extreme tide events. This initiative not only raises awareness about climate change but also offers a chance to contribute to important environmental research.
For music enthusiasts, the Winter Music Festival in Florence from January 23-25, 2025, features a diverse range of genres, including bluegrass, folk, and even dystopian Afrofuturism. It’s a perfect way to warm up with good tunes in the chilly winter air!
February: Celebrating Art, Seafood, and Stories
February brings a mix of flavors and creativity to the Oregon Coast. Astoria’s Festival of Dark Arts on February 15, 2025, hosted by Fort George Brewery, is a must-visit for craft beer lovers. Expect a celebration filled with “dark art, darker entertainment, and the darkest collection of beers.” Tickets typically go on sale on Black Friday, so be ready to snag them!
The Newport Seafood and Wine Festival, taking place from February 20-23, 2025, is a 21-and-over event celebrating the best of the Pacific Northwest’s culinary delights. You’ll find fresh seafood, local wines, baked goods, and more to indulge in.
Another highlight is the FisherPoets Gathering in Astoria, scheduled for February 21-23, 2025. This unique event brings together voices from the commercial fishing industry, showcasing poetry, storytelling, and music that reflect the trials and triumphs of life on the water.
March: Crabs, Music, and Whales
March is an exciting month on the Oregon Coast, starting with the Garibaldi Crab Races on March 8-9, 2025. This fun event features both kid and adult divisions, where participants race live crabs for the win!
The South Coast Clambake Music Festival, hosted at North Bend’s Mill Casino from March 13-16, 2025, features an array of music genres, including blues and zydeco. The festival’s name pays homage to the slang term for a jam session, ensuring a lively atmosphere for all attendees.
Don’t miss the chance to witness migratory whales during Spring Whale Watching Week, running from March 22-30, 2025. Volunteers will be stationed at various viewpoints to help you catch a glimpse of these majestic creatures returning north.
April: Clean Beaches and Seafood Delights
April showers bring May flowers, and it’s also a time to give back! Join the SOLVE Oregon Spring Beach Cleanup on April 19, 2025, and help keep the coastline pristine while enjoying the fresh ocean air.
Feast on local specialties at the Astoria Warrenton Crab, Seafood & Wine Festival from April 25-27, 2025. This delightful festival features fresh crab, wine tastings, and live music, making it a perfect outing for food lovers.
Another notable event is the Circles in the Sand festival in Bandon from April 29 to August 12, 2025, where intricate labyrinths and land art meet the beach, creating a magical experience for all visitors.
May: Flowers, Bikes, and Adventure
May is bursting with color and activity along the coast! The Florence Rhododendron Festival, celebrating its 117th year in 2024, takes place from May 15-18, 2025. It’s one of the oldest flower festivals on the West Coast, featuring colorful parades, floral displays, and community events.
If you’re an outdoor enthusiast, the Cannon Beach Fat Bike Festival from May 16-18, 2025, invites you to pedal along the sandy shores near Haystack Rock. It’s a unique way to experience the beach while getting some exercise!
June: Celebrate Summer with Festivals
June marks the arrival of summer and a slew of exciting events! On June 1, 2025, the annual Newport Marathon kicks off at the Yaquina Bay Lighthouse, offering a scenic route that qualifies for the Boston Marathon.
Join the celebration on Goonies Day on June 7, 2025, in Astoria. This event commemorates the beloved 1985 film, featuring festivities that highlight popular filming locations.
The Cannon Beach Sandcastle Contest on June 21, 2025, promises fun for the whole family, with a bonfire the night before and a fun run after the event. It’s a competition that showcases incredible sand sculptures created by talented teams.
For those who enjoy the arts, the Oregon Divisional Chainsaw Carving Championship from June 12-15, 2025, features impressive wood sculptures, quick carves, and live auctions throughout Father’s Day weekend.
July: Summer Celebrations and Coastal Fun
July is all about celebrating summer on the Oregon Coast! Join wildlife experts for the Great Cannon Beach Puffin Watch each morning to learn about the fascinating birds that visit Haystack Rock during breeding season. Independence Day festivities bring fireworks to numerous coastal towns, while quaint parades light up the streets in places like Cannon Beach and Oceanside.
Don’t miss the Dory Days festival in Pacific City, where flat-bottomed fishing boats inspire a lively parade and beach activities from July 25-27, 2025. Live music, a car show, and exciting contests make this event a hit with locals and visitors alike!
August: Beach Sports and Unique Races
August heats up with thrilling events! The Tillamook County Fair from August 6-9, 2025, features the quirky Pig-n-Ford race, where participants race Model Ts while balancing pigs—an entertaining spectacle not to be missed!
On August 7-10, 2025, the Seaside Beach Volleyball Tournament welcomes teams from around the world. Whether you’re a player or a spectator, the energy and excitement are contagious!
The Siletz Bay Music Festival from August 14-24, 2025, brings jazz, chamber music, and more to Lincoln City, creating an inviting atmosphere for music lovers.
September: Harvest and Community Spirit
As summer winds down, September hosts events that celebrate community and local harvests. Bring your furry friends to Muttzanita in Manzanita, a fundraiser for a local animal rescue agency, where you can enjoy fun activities with your pooch.
Join the Lincoln City Fall Kite Festival on September 20-21, 2025, at the D River State Recreation Site. This colorful event showcases stunning kites of all shapes and sizes, filling the sky with vibrant displays.
The Bandon Cranberry Festival, scheduled for September 11-14, 2025, features a cranberry eating contest, the crowning of the Cranberry Court, and a lively crab derby, making it a fun-filled family event.
October: Festivities and Nature’s Beauty
October brings autumn beauty to the coast. Lace up your running shoes for the Great Columbia Crossing 10k run/walk over the Astoria-Megler Bridge on October 12, 2025. This event promises breathtaking views but be advised—it’s not for the acrophobic!
On the spooky side, the Yachats Mushroom Festival invites you to enjoy the wonders of fungi with educational events and delicious tastings. Don’t forget to participate in the special Halloween-themed glass float drop in Lincoln City from October 31 to November 2, 2025, featuring glow-in-the-dark floats hidden along the beach.
November: Arts and Culture
November sets the stage for cultural celebrations. The Stormy Weather Arts Festival in Cannon Beach from November 7-9, 2025, features artist demonstrations, gallery receptions, and live music—an excellent opportunity to appreciate local talents.
The Yachats Celtic Music Festival, also held from November 7-9, 2025, showcases concerts, whistle workshops, and dance performances, celebrating the rich cultural heritage of the Celtic community.
Finally, the Shore Acres Holiday Lights event transforms a stunning estate garden into a dazzling display of lights from Thanksgiving through New Year’s Eve, making it a magical evening outing for all.
December: Holiday Cheer and Whale Watching
As the year comes to a close, December offers festive cheer and opportunities to connect with nature. The Candy Cane Express offers a one-hour round-trip ride from Garibaldi to Rockaway Beach, providing a scenic holiday experience on the Oregon Coast.
Participate in the Oregon King Tides Project once again by capturing images of areas affected by extreme tide events. This project continues to foster awareness about the impact of climate change along our coastlines.
Additionally, volunteers can join in counting whales during Winter Whale Watching Week, which provides a chance to witness these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat while learning from knowledgeable guides.
Conclusion
The Oregon Coast is not just a place to visit; it’s a vibrant community that celebrates its natural beauty and rich culture through a wide array of events year-round. From thrilling races and music festivals to seafood tastings and environmental initiatives, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Make sure to mark your calendar and experience the unforgettable events that the Oregon Coast has to offer. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, these must-see events promise to create lasting memories and deepen your connection to this stunning coastal paradise.